Queens Park Rangers are struggling to break down a stubborn Preston North End defence at Loftus Road as the teams head into the break goalless.

Neither side created much in front of goal in the early stages, but a Junior Hoilett cross that curled just wide of the far post sent Preston nerves jangling in the seventh minute.

QPR spent much of the first half on the front foot, and threatened again in the 19th minute when Matty Phillips's cross almost found the head of Charlie Austin in the box, Jordan Pickford leaping high to make the catch.

Neil Warnock's side ventured forward again in the 26th minute when Sandro gained possession in the final third and got a shot away, his effort sailing harmlessly over the bar.

They had the chance to take a slender lead into half time, winning a free kick in the danger zone in stoppage time, but Alejandro Faurlin's vicious strike was saved by Pickford.